Northfields & District Play Association
Alternative Provision
At The Play Barn, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to develop their skills, build confidence, and reach their full potential. We provide alternative provision for learners who may struggle to engage within mainstream education, offering a supportive and structured environment where individual needs are placed at the centre of learning.
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Our programme operates five days a week and has a proven track record of supporting young people to achieve their personal goals and give them the tools they need to excel in further education. We are committed to making a positive and lasting difference in the lives of the learners we work with, providing a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment in which they can thrive.
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At The Play Barn, we work in partnership with schools, families, and professionals to empower young people and support them towards a more positive and successful future.
What can we offer?
The Play Barn offers a high-quality alternative provision within a supportive and engaging environment. Our modern, fully equipped kitchen provides learners with the opportunity to take part in structured cooking sessions using a wide range of appliances. These sessions are carefully differentiated to ensure that each learner is working at an appropriate level, developing practical life skills alongside confidence and independence.
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We can offer up to 18 hours per week per learner for longer-term placements. For short-term or emergency placements, in line with Alternative Provision (AP) guidelines, we are able to offer increased hours. These placements are subject to discussion with a senior member of staff, are limited to a maximum of 12 weeks, and are regularly reviewed to ensure they continue to meet the learner’s needs.
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Our provision includes a range of flexible learning spaces, allowing learners to access both face-to-face and virtual sessions in an environment tailored to their individual requirements.
We also provide vocational opportunities, including bike maintenance, delivered by trained and qualified staff. Learners are taught how to safely and correctly maintain and repair bicycles, either their own or those provided by us. This hands-on experience helps young people explore future career pathways, particularly in practical and mechanical fields.
Many learners go on to express an interest in careers in mechanics after discovering a passion for this area.
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In addition, we benefit from a large outdoor space, enabling us to deliver forestry-based learning activities. These sessions promote teamwork, resilience, self-esteem, and confidence through practical, outdoor experiences.
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We work closely with schools and other professionals to create personalised learning plans, ensuring each learner receives a structured, consistent programme tailored to their individual needs and goals.
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All sessions are delivered by fully qualified and experienced staff who are committed to supporting young people’s educational progress, personal development, and overall wellbeing. Our team is passionate about helping learners re-engage with education and achieve their full potential.
Staff information
All staff at The Play Barn receive the required training to ensure we deliver the highest possible standard of provision for young people. We place the safety and wellbeing of learners at the centre of everything we do, and all staff are fully trained in safeguarding. This training is regularly updated through ongoing professional development and refresher courses to ensure best practice is maintained at all times.
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Our team brings together a wide range of experience across Special Educational Needs (SEN), youth work, sport, schools, and Alternative Provision. This diverse skill set enables us to work collaboratively, sharing knowledge and expertise to provide a high-quality, well-rounded service that meets the individual needs of each learner.
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Our staff are approachable, supportive, and highly motivated, with a genuine passion for working with young people. We are committed to building positive relationships, promoting self-confidence, and supporting learners to develop the skills and resilience they need to move towards a positive and successful future.
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All staff hold up-to-date Enhanced DBS checks, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all learners.